Youth

Youth LEAD Employment Program

In September 2013, PQCHC welcomed a new employment program for newcomer and immigrant youth called Youth LEAD (Learn, Experience, Assist, Develop).

Youth LEAD assists permanent resident and refugee youth between the ages of 15-29 to develop skills and experience working in Canada. Throughout the 16 week skill building program, participants receive certifications in First Aid and CPR, customer service, WHMIS, workplace safety, Smart Serve, Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, conflict resolution, High Five and more. Participants will receive on-going support and guidance from experienced program staff. Financial support for transportation and childcare is also available.

Enrolment in this free Youth LEAD program offers:

140 hours of in-class training

182 hours of on-the-job work experience at a social service agency

To be eligible for the Youth LEAD program, participants must be residents of Ontario, between the ages of 15 and 29, not in full time school and unemployed (exceptions can be made for those attending ESL classes on a part-time basis). Youth LEAD is a program for newcomer youth, so applicants must be a permanent resident or have been granted refugee protection.

Some of the social service agencies Youth LEAD has worked with in the past include:

Ottawa Community Housing

OCISO

Britannia Woods Community House

Somali Centre for Families

World University Service of Canada

Nepean, Rideau, Osgoode Community Resource Centre

15 youth are accepted per session, and sessions run three times per year. For more information on the program or to find out when the next session takes place, call 613-820-4922 ext. 3692.

The Youth LEAD program is funded by the Government of Canada through Citizenship and Immigration Canada and administered by the Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre.